Renting Storage When Moving Out of State

Published on 11/19/2021
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Renting Storage


A woman packing boxes after reading about renting storage when moving out of state
Once you decide to relocate, you immediately start worrying about the whole process. Moving usually means a lot of boxes, displaced furniture, and mess everywhere. This leads to confusion, clutter, and you feeling stressed out and overwhelmed. Luckily, there’s a way to avoid that. Even when moving out of state, you can find a storage unit helpful. Renting storage when moving out of state can help you organize a better and smoother transition to the new home. Let’s see how.

Reasons why renting a storage unit is a good idea

Storage units can have different purposes and be helpful in so many different situations. One of them is undoubtedly moving. Renting storage can be beneficial when:

  • You need a place to store your items when selling your old home – home staging for a better and faster sale means you’ll have to remove most of your items. Storage is the best way to do it.
  • Buying time for buying a new home – if you need some time to find a perfect home in the new city, placing your items in storage is a great idea;
  • Protecting valuables – fragile and valuable items are at risk during the moving process. Store them securely until the movers take care of the bulky items and boxes;
  • Decluttering your household – it’s vital to declutter your home before moving in. Renting a storage unit will give you additional space for all the seasonal items, hobby supplies – all the things you don’t use every day.
A staged home
Renting a storage unit is perfect when you need to put items away for staging your home for sale.

Important features to look for when renting a storage unit

Looking for a unit is one of those things you need to do when you start planning your interstate move. Once you decide to relocate, make a list of all tasks, so you have enough time to do everything properly. If you need a storage unit, don’t just go for the first option you find online. Put some thought into picking a unit that fits your needs.

Location

You need to be able to easily reach your unit, so it’s essential to pay attention to the location. However, remember that storage units in popular areas usually come with a higher price.

Size of the unit

Depending on how many items you plan to store, you’ll need a unit that can fit everything without any problems. Renting a storage unit that’s way too big is a waste of money, so make sure to double-check the size. Measure your items and estimate how much space you need. This will ensure you’ve got enough space without overpaying.

Accessibility

Think about how often you’ll visit the unit. Make sure you ask about the working hours of the storage facility so you know whether you can access it 24/7, in the evenings, weekends, or on specific dates.

Security

Another essential aspect of renting a storage unit is security. The unit you rent should be protected, especially if you plan to put your valuables there. Check if the place has surveillance cameras, security locks, and similar safety measures.

Prices and additional fees

Make sure you know exactly how much you need to pay for your unit. Don’t sign anything before you are sure about all the costs. Sometimes, prices vary and may come with some additional hidden fees. Ask the storage facility representative about the final price, as well as any other concerns you may have.

A woman packing clothes in a box
Storage can be very helpful if you pick the right one.

Organizing your storage unit

To ensure your belongings stay in good shape, you need to pack them well and organize your storage unit. A tidy unit means you will be able to reach your things without trouble whenever you need them. Here are some tips for storing your items.

Packing smaller items

You need to pack the smaller items well when putting them in storage. It’s a wise idea to label your boxes. This will make the search much easier later on when you need something.

Packing weather-sensitive items

Electronics, paintings, and books are sensitive to humidity, low temperatures, and varying weather conditions. It is essential to opt for a climate-controlled unit if you need to store such sensitive items. Also, take care of them during transport if you’re moving in bad weather. It is possible to relocate with minimum damage even if the conditions are far from optimal. However, it is necessary to use caution and proper packing supplies.

A moving box labeled fragile
Pick a storage unit that will keep your fragile things safe.

Lift the items off the ground

While we’re on the topic of difficult conditions, it’s best to lift your items off the ground when placing them in a storage unit. Use palettes to do this, and you will protect your belongings from potential floods, dirt, and pests.

Organize the items

It is crucial to optimize the space in your unit and use it to its full potential. You can start by placing bigger, less frequently used items in the back. Then, you can put smaller things in the front so that you can reach them faster. Also, be sure to organize your unit by creating aisles.

Renting storage when moving out of state can be extremely helpful. However, you need to be careful, so it doesn’t create additional problems in the already hectic moving process. Choosing a secure unit from a professional storage company is a must – you don’t want any shady businesses near your belongings.